2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and payload capacity. Available engine options include the 6.2L Boss SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8 (385 hp/430 lb-ft torque), the 7.3L Godzilla OHV 2-Valve PFI V8 (430 hp/475 lb-ft torque), and the 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (475 hp/1,050 lb-ft torque). The 6.2L comes standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 7.3L and 6.7L are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the F-250’s powerful engines, comfortable interior (depending on trim level), and workhorse capabilities. Common complaints include the truck’s large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, the high price point, and occasional reliability concerns.

Engine

6.2L Boss SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8

• Valve Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing valve spring failure, leading to misfires and potential engine damage. This is often accompanied by a check engine light and rough running.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve springs and potentially any damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7.3L Godzilla OHV 2-Valve PFI V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can be more prevalent in early production models.
  • Solution: In some cases, Ford has recommended engine replacements, or rebuilds. Other times, the issue is not addressed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8

• CP4 Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The CP4 high-pressure fuel pump is known to be susceptible to failure when contaminated fuel is used. Failure can cause metal shavings to be sent through the entire fuel system, causing catastrophic damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the CP4 pump and potentially the entire fuel system, including injectors, fuel lines, and fuel tank. Upgrading to a CP3 pump can prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report issues with glow plugs failing prematurely. This can result in hard starts, especially in cold weather, and can trigger a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 6.2L V8)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or erratic shifting between gears. This can be more noticeable at lower speeds or during towing.
  • Solution: Sometimes a software update will resolve the problem. Other times, replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (reprogram) / $3,000 - $5,000+ (replace transmission)
  • Recalls: None Found

10-Speed Automatic (Paired with 7.3L V8 and 6.7L Diesel)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 6-speed, some owners experience harsh shifting, hesitation, or clunking, particularly during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. Some report the transmission “hunting” for the correct gear.
  • Solution: Software updates are sometimes effective. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (reprogram) / $1,500 - $6,000+ (valve body or transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Death Wobble
  • Description/Symptoms: The notorious “death wobble” is a violent shaking of the front end, usually occurring at highway speeds after hitting a bump.
  • Solution: Replacing the steering stabilizer, ball joints, or track bar.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensor failures, including those related to the exhaust system (DEF level sensor, NOx sensors), can trigger check engine lights and potentially affect vehicle performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, glitching, or failure of the SYNC infotainment system. Bluetooth connectivity problems are also common.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset, software update, or replacing the SYNC module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) / $100 - $1,200+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgates failing to open or close properly, especially those with the step feature. This can be due to faulty latches, actuators, or wiring.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the tailgate latch, actuator, or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Discomfort
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have complained about the seats being uncomfortable, especially on long drives, even in higher trim levels. This seems to be subjective and varies between individuals.
  • Solution: Aftermarket seat cushions or covers may provide some relief.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the sunroof, often due to clogged drain tubes.
  • Solution: Clearing the drain tubes, resealing the sunroof, or replacing the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty has a range of potential issues, varying in severity and cost. Engine and transmission problems, particularly related to the CP4 fuel pump in the diesel engine and shifting issues in both transmissions, can be very expensive to repair. The “death wobble” is a serious safety concern. Other issues like sensor failures and SYNC problems are less severe but still frustrating for owners. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect any used F-250, paying close attention to maintenance records and any signs of the problems described above.